Valentine’s Day in London

Celebrate another Valentine's Day together in the prestigious capitalA comprehensive guide to the places couples can visit in London on Valentine’s Day 2012.

Thinking of taking a city break for Valentines Day? You’re probably contemplating Paris or Prague. However, London has secured its position once more as one of the most well-liked Valentine's Day destinations in the world (plus, it’s also a little closer to home). In the city you can impress your loved one with panoramic views or a West End show. Before or after your meal, why not take a romantic stroll or snuggle up in a cosy pub? When in London, you could also take the time out to soak up some history and culture as the city boasts magnificent museums, art galleries and historical architecture.

For years London has been overshadowed by the likes of Paris as the most romantic city, but this year we believe London will be able to knock the French off the top spot. Lovers can enjoy an abundance of cuisines in some of London’s most intimate restaurants, see a stunning show, watch an acclaimed musical or take to a river Thames cruise. There are various alternatives for celebrating this special occasion, whether you prefer a quiet and romantic stroll or love to make it a momentous occasion, by celebrating in style.

Restaurants with a view

We have heard of a room with a view, but how about eating at a restaurant with a panoramic view? There are many London restaurants that take advantage of their location, especially along the South Bank where restaurants not only offer fine dining, but also jaw dropping views. Why not take to the skies to enjoy your meal? The Oxo Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie located eight floors up on the South Bank offer diners a stylish and creative menu that boasts an array of flavours and aromas. So too, does the Skylon, located at the Royal Festive Hall.

OXO Tower Restaurant

OXO Tower Wharf,
Barge House Street,
South Bank,
SE1 9PH

Telephone number: 020 7803 3888

Nearest tube to Oxo: Southwark (Jubilee Line)

Other routes: London Waterloo East Rail Station

Skylon

Royal Festival Hall,

SE1 8XX

Telephone number: 020 7654 7800

Nearest tube to Skylon: Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City Lines)

Other routes: London Waterloo Rail Station

For those who would like a cheap and cheerful dinner, why not enjoy a gentle stroll along the Thames to More London? There is a great range of restaurants to choose from including Dim T, a traditional Asian eatery that combines healthy eating with a theatrical show, with chefs preparing your meal in front of you.

However, if you’re water lovers, why take to the Thames on the Bataeux London cruise, which includes champagne, a four-course meal and live entertainment?

Dim T

2 More London,

Tooley Street,

SE1 2DB

Telephone number: 020 7403 7000

Nearest tube to Dim T: London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern Lines)

Other routes: London Bridge Rail Station

Bateaux London

Victoria Embankment,

WC2N 6NU

Telephone number: 020 7695 1800

Nearest tube to Bataeux: Embankment (Bakerloo, Circle, District and Northern Lines)

Other routes: London Charing Cross Rail Station

Accommodation

Why not make it a weekend break this year and enjoy the surroundings of one of Refresh Accommodation’s apartments? There are some fantastic places for you to stay that are situated across the glorious city of London and they are sure to cater to all your requirements. Below you will find some of our most beautiful apartments where you can make your very own love nest.

Dolphin House, Victoria, (nearest underground: Pimlico)

•          10min walk to Victoria – bars, restaurants
•          London eye, Tate Britain and river Thames near by
•          Complimentary access into the gym, pool, sauna, steam room
•          Chelsea embankment near-by for walks

Plaza on the River, South Bank (nearest underground: Westminster, Vauxhall, Pimlico)

•          Stunning river views and balcony’s
•          Brasserie, Bar & Lounge
•          Fitness suite
•          Butler service for dining in your suite

Citadines Trafalgar, Trafalgar Square (nearest underground: Charing Cross)

•          Fantastic location – short walk to most of London’s tourist attractions, restaurants and bars
•          Breakfast room

130 Queensgate, South Kensington (nearest underground: South Kensington)

•          Luxury apartments
•          Short walk from Hyde Park
•          Kings road just a short stroll away

Take a romantic stroll

For those who love to get out and about, London can offer couples wonderful walks that will take you to a place that is filled with romance. Walk hand in hand along the Thames and take in all the sights London has to offer, or wrap up warm and enjoy the fresh air at a Royal Park. Kew Gardens is one of our recommended places to take a romantic stroll, providing onlookers with magnificent floral displays. 

The Kew Gardener

18 Station Parade,

Kew Gardens,

TW9 3PZ

Telephone number: 020 8948 1422

Nearest tube to Kew Gardens: Kew Gardens (District Line)

Other routes: Kew Bridge Rail Station

Romantic places to visit

With so many places to visit you’re spoilt for choice. However, we have a few rendezvous locations that we think you and your significant other will adore. It’s hard to imagine you’re in Central London when taking a romantic break from the bustling streets to enjoy the scenic views of Hyde Park. With 4,000 trees, a rose garden, a lake and 350 acres to explore you’re sure to lose yourself in the beauty of Hyde Park.  Kensington Gardens is another place where couples can enjoy the riches of elegant avenues and architecture including the Peter Pan statue and the Serpentine Gallery. Covering 275 acres and located next to Hyde Park, you’ll be able to wander arm in arm for hours on end.

Hyde Park

25 Leinster Square,

W2 4NE

Telephone number: 020 7298 2100

Nearest tube to Hyde Park: Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly Line) or Marble Arch (Central Line)

Other routes: London Paddington Rail Station

Kensington Gardens

Exhibition Rd,

City of Westminster,

W2 2UH

Nearest tube to Kensington Gardens: High Street Kensington (Circle and District Lines) or Queensway (Central Line)

Other routes: London Paddington Rail Station

If you need a helping hand with setting a romantic scene, the Royal Opera House provide wonderful stage performances that will have the both of you wishing the evening never has to end. However, if a bit a history is what you’re after why not visit Hampton Court Palace? It is the historical place where King Henry VIII wooed his many brides. 

Royal Opera House

Covent Garden,

WC2E 9DD

Telephone number: 020 7240 1200

Nearest tube to the Royal Opera House: Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line)

Other routes: London Charing Cross

Hampton Court Palace

Surrey,

 KT8 9AU

Telephone number: 0844 482 7777

Nearest station to Hampton Court Palace: Hampton Court Rail Station

Cosy Pubs

To end the evening why not enjoy sitting in a cosy London pub that is filled with a romantic ambience? Once you've enjoyed a romantic walk or had your fill at some of London’s opulent restaurants you can snuggle up together and enjoy peace a quiet in one of these many pubs.

Spaniard’s Inn

Spaniards Road,

Greater London,

NW3 7JJ

Telephone number: 020 8731 8406 () ‎

Nearest tube to Spaniard’s Inn: Hampstead (Northern Line)

Other routes: Hampstead Heath Rail Station

Quirky fact: Dick Turpin used to drink in this pub in the 18^th Century

The Clarence

53 Whitehall,

City of London,

SW1A 2HP

Telephone number: 020 7930 4808

Nearest tube to The Clarence: Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern Lines)

Other routes: London Charing Cross Rail Station

Quirky fact: Has a special Pol Roger Champagne room upstairs

The Harp

47 Chandos Pl,

City of London,

WC2N 4HS

Telephone number: 020 7836 0291

Nearest tube to The Harp: Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines)

Other routes: London Charing Cross Rail Station

Quirky fact: Perfect choice for those who love real ales

The Lamb and Flag

33 Rose Street,

City of London,

WC2E 9

Telephone number: 020 7497 9504

Nearest tube to The Lamb and Flag: Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line)

Other routes: London Charing Cross Rail Station

Quirky fact: One of London's oldest pubs

Celebrate the Chinese New Year in London

Celebrate the Chinese New Year in style 2012 marks the Year of the Dragon and on 29th January, London is set to be filled with vibrant colours, good cheer and marvellous celebrations. The Dragon is one of the most renowned creatures in Chinese legend and those born in Dragon years are said to be highly driven, brave and innovative.

From 10am to 12pm the capital will come alive with the infamous parade commencing at the West End, passing through China Town, Shaftesbury Avenue, Charing Cross Road and Rupert Street until finally, ending the celebrations at Trafalgar Square.

Once the parade has finished the official opening ceremony will begin with the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson and Chinese Ambassador to London, Mr Liu Xiaoming making their speeches, continued by Dragon dancing, live performances and music until 6pm.

Not all celebrations will be held at Trafalgar Square; China Town will host a parade by Lion dancers, offer local produce on an array of stalls and along Shaftesbury Avenue spectators can enjoy live performances from schools and local community groups.

Last year 300,000 people attended the celebrations, with Shaftesbury Avenue becoming "Hong Kong in London" and spectators enjoying acrobatic performances and world-class dance, music.

When and Where?

29th January across London

For the morning parade: West End, China Town, Shaftesbury Avenue, Charing Cross Road, Rupert Street and Trafalgar Square.
For the opening ceremony: Trafalgar Square.
Celebrations: Trafalgar Square, China Town and Shaftesbury Avenue.

Nearby Bars and Restaurants

With so many destinations to arrive at, the choice of restaurants and bars are in abundance. However, after much thought we have narrowed the selection down to what we believe are the best bars and eateries in the city (all the restaurants have a common theme).

•    Ping Pong (45 Great Marlborough Street, City of Westminster, W1F 7JL)
Cuisine: Chinese
Telephone Number: (020) 7851 6969
•     Y Ming (35 Greek St, Westminster, W1D 5DL)
Cuisine: Chinese
Telephone Number: (020) 7734 2721
•    Chine City Restaurant – Leicester Square (4 Leicester Street, WC2H 7BL)
Cuisine: Chinese
Telephone Number: (020) 7437 1528
•    Yauatcha (15 Broadwick Street, Greater London, W1F 0DL)
Cuisine: Chinese
Telephone Number: (020) 7494 8888
•    Cork & Bottle Wine Bar (44-46 Cranbourn Street, Greater London, WC2H 7AN)
Type: Wine Bar
Telephone Number: (020) 7734 7807
•    Zoo Bar & Club (13-17 Bear Street, Leicester Square, WC2H 7AQ)
Type: Bar and Cub
Telephone number: (020) 7839 4188

Accommodation

You have celebrated the Chinese New Year in style, taken in all the sights of the parade and enjoyed dancing across Trafalgar Square. Now it’s time to relax and unwind from the day’s activities in a luxurious London apartment. At Refresh Accommodation we have plenty of studio, one, two, three and four bedroom apartments for you to choose from, ideal for couples, families or a party of close friends.

Citadines Trafalgar, Trafalgar Square (nearest underground: Charing Cross)
SACO London Covent Garden, The West End (nearest underground: Covent Garden)
No. 5 Maddox Street, Mayfair (nearest underground: Oxford Circus)
Arlington House, Mayfair (nearest underground: Green Park)

Travel (http://www.tfl.gov.uk)

The best way to get to the Chinese New Year locations in London is via the underground. Below you will find a list of the nearest tube stations to get off at to watch the parade go by.

To get to Trafalgar Square you want to stop off at Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern Lines). London Charing Cross Rail Station is also close by, ideal for those who want to travel into London without having to use the tube.

If you want to parade down to China Town, the nearest tube stations to jump off at are Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly Lines) or Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines).

Watching the parade from the West End you have an assortment of tube stations to get off at, depending on the direction you’re coming from. Get to the West End by arriving at Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly Lines), Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line), Tottenham Court Rd (Central and Northern Lines), Oxford Circus (Central, Bakerloo and Victoria Lines) or Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines).

To arrive at Shaftsbury Avenue, you want to get off at Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly Lines). However, if you wish to get to Charing Cross Road, Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines) or Tottenham Court Rd (Central and Northern Lines) are your point of call.

To get to either end of Rupert Street you’ll need to jump off the tube at either Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly Lines) or Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines).

Disney on Ice Princesses and Heroes

Experience the magic of Disney on IceDisney on Ice presents Princesses and Heroes where all your favourite characters from popular Disney stories come together for an action packed family adventure.  Expect to see high speed skating, daring acrobatics and all your favourite characters as Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, and many other princesses take to the ice to make their dreams come true.   Enjoy stories from the depths of Ariel’s undersea kingdom as she yearns to explore the world above the waves to stories from a whole new world with the loveable Jasmine and Aladdin. See Prince Phillip defeat Maleficent and watch what happens when Sleeping Beauty receives true love’s first kiss.

Whether you love Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother, wishes coming true, heroic action or undersea adventures, every moment you loved from these Disney treasures come to life at Wembley Arena in March. This magical performance is sure to capture the imaginations of thousands and create a lifetime of fond memories. We predict that Princesses and Heroes will become one of Disney on Ice’s most spelling-binding shows yet.

For more information on Disney on Ice Princesses and Heroes 2012 in London, please phone 020 8782 5566.

Show dates, times and tickets

Wembley Arena: March 7 to April 1

Click here to find times and book your tickets

Venue Address

Wembley Arena,  Arena Square,Engineers Way,London, HA9 OAA.

Travel (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/)

Wembley Arena is one of the greatest live event venues in London and during March it will be filled with enchantment and spectacular entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.

Underground

For those who are travelling to Wembley Arena to catch this magical adventure the closest underground station is Wembley Park (serviced by the Jubilee and Metropolitan line).

Overland Rail

Wembley Arena is situated a close walk from the Wembley Stadium Rail Station.

Buses

When travelling to Wembley Arena during the day, hop onto either the 92, PR2 or 83 buses. However, on your way back take the 83 night bus to Ealing Hospital.

Visit the TfL website for more information about the bus routes or any other London public transport.

Nearby bars and restaurants

When visiting the Wembley Arena you will find there are some tantalisingly good restaurants and atmospheric bars to call upon. Below is a list of our recommended bars and restaurants, which one tickles your taste buds?

Wembley Arena

• Sushi-Say (33b Walm Lane, NW2 5SH.)

Cuisine: Japanese, sushi

Telephone Number: (020) 8459 7512

• Carluccio’s (Brent Cross Shopping Centre, NW4 3FN.)

Cuisine: Italian

Telephone Number:  (020) 8203 6844

• The Parish (120 Wembley Park Drive, Wembley, HA9 8HP.)

Type: Pub

Telephone Number: (020) 8903 8119

• The Avalon (16 Balham Hill, Balham, SW12 9EB.)

Type:  Public House and Garden

Telephone Number: (020) 8675 8613

Accommodation

If you’re treating the family to a spellbinding London show and are in need of a place to stay, we here at Refresh Accommodation believe we have the right place for you. Choose from an extraordinary array of two or three bedroom apartments that are all within close proximity of the Wembley Arena. Below you will find a list of luxury serviced apartments that range in price, ensuring we can accommodate both your family and wallet.

Sanctum Apartments – Maida Vale/Kilburn, (nearest underground: Kilburn Park)

SO-Quartier, Maida Vale/Kilburn (nearest underground: Kilburn Park)

162 Gloucester Place, Regents Park (nearest station: Baker street)

Presidential Apartments, The West End (nearest underground: Marble Arch)

The BRIT Awards

The BRIT Awards returns to the O2 ArenaA comprehensive guide about The BRIT Awards, which is taking place at The O2 Arena in London during February 2012.

The BRIT Awards will be returning to The O2 Arena for the second consecutive time after experiencing a fantastic year in 2011 at one of the world’s most successful music venues. Hosting the event will be the talented actor/writer/producer and presenter James Corden, who will be returning for the second time running. During the event expect to see incredible performances by some the UK’s brightest stars, trophies awarded to talents that have had us enjoying British music time and time again and an unforgettable atmosphere.

Last year the BRITs asked Dame Vivienne Westwood to design their ‘blank canvas’ trophy, which saw the likes of Plan B, Tinie Tempah, Take That and Mumford & Sons take home the bespoke statue. However, in 2012 entertainers will be presented with a trophy that has been designed by none other than Sir Peter Blake, who is known for his iconic album sleeves. His work includes The Beatles - Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Oasis – Stop The Clocks and the single sleeve for the Band Aid single Do They Know It’s Christmas?

Performances are yet to be confirmed, but if last year is anything to go by, it’s sure to be a mind-blowing event.

Date

21 February 2012
Visit the O2 website for further information

Venue Address

The O2 Arena,
Peninsula Square,
London
SE10 0DX

Travel (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/)

The O2 Arena is one of the greatest live event venues in London, where musical talents and extraordinary shows give the performances of their lives to their adoring audiences.

Underground

For those travelling to the O2 Arena, North Greenwich (Jubilee line) is the closest tube station for you to get off from.

Overland Rail

To get to the O2 Arena by national rail you need to come out of Charlton train station and jump onto buses 486, 472 or N472, which will take about 10 minutes to get to North Greenwich.

Buses

The key bus destinations for the O2 include Stratford, Charlton, Greenwich, Lewisham, Woolwich, Eltham, North Kent and Central London.

If you would like any more information about the bus routes or any other London public transport visit the TfL website.

Nearby bars and restaurants

In and around the O2 Arena there is a fantastic range of restaurants and bars (if you haven’t got children with you) all bursting with exquisite tastes and smells to enjoy. Take a look below to see which establishment tickles your taste buds.

•    Cheyenne Spur (Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX.)
Cuisine: Steaks and Grills
Telephone Number: (020) 8858 0196
•    Nakhon Thai – Waterfront (Waterfront Studios Business Centre, 1 Dock Road, E16 1AH.)
Cuisine:  Thai
Telephone Number: (020) 4745510
•    Becks Vier Bar (The O2 arena, Unit 20 Peninsula Square, Greenwich, SE10 0DX.)
Type: Bar
Telephone Number: 0872 148 4738
•    The Slug and Lettuce (The O2 arena, 1-34 Entertainment Avenue, Greenwich, SE10 0DY.)
Type: Bar
Telephone Number: (020) 8858 1241

Accommodation

Treating the family to a London show and in need of a place to stay? We here at Refresh Accommodation could provide you with the perfect apartment situated in close proximity to the O2 Arena. Below you will find a list of luxury serviced apartments that range in price, ensuring we can accommodate your family and your budget.

Lanterns Court, Canary Wharf (nearest underground: Canary Wharf)
City Docklands, Docklands (nearest underground: Limehouse DLR)
Think London Bridge, London Bridge (nearest station: London Bridge)

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in London’s Club

Celebrate New Year's Eve in styleA comprehensive guide to London’s top night clubs during New Year’s Eve 2011.

New Year’s Eve parties are the biggest events to attend, so when travelling to London for December 31st you want to make sure you have the hottest tickets in town. Whether you enjoy themed parties, celebrating in night clubs or love watching fireworks take to the sky, London has the perfect event for you to wave goodbye to 2011. Dance away to tracks played by stellar DJs, enjoy the sound of live bands, tuck into gourmet meals and celebrate the beginning of 2012 in style. Below you will find a list of recommended hot spots from the Roof Gardens at Kensington High Street to celebrations at Battersea Park.

Where are the hottest New Year’s Eve parties?

Club: Trevor Nelson New Years Eve at Camden Town Hall
Address: Judd Street, Kings Cross, WC1H 9JE (0871 971 3808)
When: December 31st 21:00-03:00

Entertainment: One of the BBC’s biggest DJ’s Trevor Nelson will be getting onto the decks and playing urban music throughout the evening. What makes this event unlike anything else all drinks (excluding champagne) are included in the ticket price (between £45 and £85). Delicious Caribbean cuisine will also be on offer in a separate lounge, perfect for those who get a little peckish during the evening.

Other information: Strictly over 23’s
Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross St. Pancras (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines)
Nearest Overground Station: London King’s Cross Rail
Ticket Price: From £45 for ladies and from £55 for men. VIP tickets are £75 before 17th December, £85 after.

Club: Roof Gardens at High Street Kensington
Address: 99 Kensington High Street, Kensington, W8 5SA (0871 971 5378)
When: December 31st 20:00-04:00

Entertainment: Begin the night by walking on the roof top greeted by canapés, themed cocktails and an inclusive bar of beer and wine. Continue your celebrations with a complimentary mini bottle of champagne and a token that can be used throughout the night to redeem against the winter BBQ that’s situated in the Tudor Walkway. Sam Londt and Rob Clarke will be spinning the desks later on in the evening allowing you to dance the night away. In the Tudor Garden Marquee, Black2Basics will be hosting A Live Soul Dance DJ Fusion Percussion, featuring Vocal Diva, Vanessa Freeman, and The Greg Bonnie Horn Section.

When the clock strikes midnight a firework display will be gracing the skies. To end the evening breakfast canapés will be served at 3am.

Other information: All guests can receive a complimentary photo that will be taken in a specially themed photo set.
Nearest Tube Station: High Street Kensington (Circle and District Lines)
Nearest Overground Station: Kensington Olympia
Ticket Price: From £125

Club: Supa Dupa Fly New Years Eve at All Star Lanes Bayswater
Address: 6 Porchester Gardens, Bayswater, W2 4DB (0872 148 1009)
When: December 31st 20:00-03:00

Entertainment: For lovers of 90’s Hip-Hop, R&B and Garage this is the New Year’s Eve event for you. The DJ line up includes the likes of DJs Big Ted and Rugrat, who will be playing well-loved tracks such as, ‘Crazy Love’, ‘My Desire’ and ‘Lovebug’. So if you enjoyed dancing to R Kelly, TLC, Donell Jones and Montell Jordan in the 90’s, why not relive it again this New Year’s Eve?

Other information: It has been named the night pick of the week by The Guardian Guide and has been featured in The Evening Standard, Time Out, RWD & SB.TV.
Nearest Tube Station: Bayswater (Circle and District lines)
Nearest Overground Station: London Paddington Rail
Ticket Price: From £15

Club: Ce Soir New Years Eve at Battersea Evolution
Address: Chelsea Bridge Entrance, Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ ((020) 78361035)
When: December 31st 19:15-02:00

Entertainment: This event does not fall short of entertainment, not only will there be themed bars and food galore including canapés, three course meal and breakfast served at midnight, the entertainment itself will be spectacular. There will be acrobats, fire eaters, trapeze artists, silks
adagio, dancers, contortionists, disco and professional DJ, Undercover Dodgems and casino tables.

Other information: Battersea Evolution is situated in the heart of Battersea Park itself
Nearest Tube Station: Clapham Common (Northern Line)
Nearest Overground Station: Battersea Park Rail Station
Ticket Price: From £125

Accommodation

With so many parties to attend and such little time, a good night’s rest is sure to be on the cards. At Refresh Accommodation we have a fantastic range of apartments for you to choose from that are located across London. From Mayfair to Bayswater, Regents Park to Knightsbridge you’re sure to find an apartment that is in close proximity to your New Year’s Eve party. There is also a wide range of apartment types, suitable for people who enjoy having space to themselves to couples and groups. Why not take advantage of having your own bed instead of crashing at a friend’s home, serve yourself up some breakfast in the kitchen and enjoy a peaceful morning? All of this and more can be yours when you stay at one of Refresh Accommodation’s serviced apartments; here are just a few that are available to you on New Year’s Eve:

Camden Town Apartments, Regents Park (nearest underground: Camden Town)
Camden Mews, Regents Park (nearest underground: Camden Town)
Monarch House, High Street Kensington (nearest underground: High Street Kensington)
Grand Plaza, Bayswater (nearest underground: Bayswater)